At a Glance

Smokey Bear Historical Park [NM]

The Smokey Bear Historical Park was created to memorialize a North American black bear cub. Found in the Capitan Mountains in 1950, the cub had survived a 17,000-acre forest fire; and was dubbed Smokey. Smokey Bear eventually became a national symbol of forest fire prevention. Although the character Smokey Bear had existed previously, the actual cub became his legally authorized face. The park presents topics such as the purpose of forest fires, forest health, and the interactive between natural and urban environments. Sites include Smokey Bear's gravesite and the Village of Capitan's first train depot.

The park offers indoor and outdoor exhibits, a 10-minute introductory film, a gravesite, a playground, and a picnic area. The website offers children's activities, coloring pages, and a Smokey Bear song and play.

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